Which concept refers to the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen?

The understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen is known as object permanence. This concept is fundamental in cognitive development, particularly in infants, and was popularized by psychologist Jean Piaget. Object permanence indicates that a child recognizes the existence of an object even when it is out of sight, which is a crucial stage in their ability to understand the world around them. This understanding typically develops around 8 to 12 months of age, transforming how infants interact with their environment and other individuals.

In contrast, schema development refers to the mental frameworks that help individuals organize and interpret information. Conceptual understanding denotes a deeper grasp of a particular idea or concept, while reflective reasoning involves the process of thinking about one's own thinking and reasoning. While these concepts are related to cognitive processes and development, they do not specifically address the idea that objects exist independently of our perception, which is the essence of object permanence.